The Rapid, an innovative and award-winning transit system headquartered in Michigan’s second largest city, provides over 11 million annual rides with 28 fixed routes, as well as paratransit, vanpool and BRT service, to a metro area with over a million residents. Ridership, up over 230% since 2000, is expected to remain strong.

Grand Rapids, named by Forbes magazine as the best place in America to raise a family in 2012, is home to several major corporations in the health care, technology, automotive, aviation, manufacturing and consumer goods industries. The economically and culturally diverse region also boasts a host of educational and recreational entities that make it an exciting place to live, work and play. Some fifteen colleges and universities call the region home and its renowned Art Museum, Urban Institute for Contemporary Art, Grand Rapids Ballet and award winning international art competition, ArtPrize, makes Grand Rapids a magnet for culture and art.

In addition to guiding The Rapid’s $44 million annual budget as well as its annual capital program, the C-Suite level Deputy CEO for Finance & Administration position will direct The Rapid’s Finance, Purchasing, Human Resources, Grants & Capital Projects, and I.T. functions.

The Deputy CEO will also provide strategic vision, analysis, planning and direction, advising the CEO, Board, and other stakeholders using measurable metrics. This person will remain current on emerging industry practices and technologies to maximize the efficiency and service while maintaining The Rapid’s position as a leader in the national transit industry.

Candidates must have exceptional interpersonal/communication skills and the ability to communicate comfortably, accurately and reliably with external stakeholders, community groups, elected officials and governmental agencies. The Deputy CEO may also be called on to act on behalf of the CEO as necessary.

A Master’s degree or equivalent preferred, as is 5-10 years of senior management experience in a transit environment.

The Rapid is an Equal Opportunity Employer and offers competitive benefits/salary. For more details, visit: www.harrisrand.com and click on “Current Opportunities,” or submit resume and cover letter in confidence to Christopher Boylan at Harris Rand Lusk Executive Search: cboylan@harrisrand.com.

The Rapid, an innovative and award-winning transit system headquartered in Michigan’s second largest city, provides over 11 million annual rides with 28 fixed routes, as well as paratransit, vanpool and BRT service, to a metro area with over a million residents. Ridership, up over 230% since 2000, is expected to remain strong.